Dentistry or aesthetic dentistry is the area of dentistry that works to restore dental aesthetics. In short, the resources available to improve the aesthetics of the smile include tooth whitening, dental crowns, resin or porcelain restorations, gum surgery (gingivectomy), and the application of modern dental contact lenses.
Contents
A more beautiful, white and harmonious smile is possible thanks to dental contact lenses and other aesthetic resources
Or even after wearing braces, when you want to improve some aspects of your smile, because during treatment you can’t change the aesthetics of your teeth.Modern dental contact lenses are ultra-thin porcelain veneers, suitable for correcting aesthetic problems with the teeth, for example:
Dental contact lenses are bonded to the surface of one or more defective teeth in a safe and non-invasive way. Because the lenses are ultra-thin, installation requires little or no wear on the teeth before they can be bonded.
The lenses are made from porcelain, the best bio-safe material used to make dental prostheses, which is similar to natural teeth in terms of its texture and shade, as well as its translucency.
This way, if the dental contact lens is applied to just one defective tooth, it won’t contrast with the neighboring natural teeth. It is certainly an aesthetic procedure that has come to completely change your smile for the better.At ImplArt, the lenses are designed and made by better computerized systems and 3D printers.
In conclusion, the last stage of the procedure is the preparation of the tooth, the application of dental cement and the bonding of the dental contact lens. Dental contact lenses are very durable, as long as the patient takes care not to bite down on hard objects and makes regular visits to the dental practice. Alternatively, veneers can be made from resin with a lower finish.
Dental contact lenses can improve the aesthetics of front teeth
Porcelain dental crowns for aesthetic purposes
Dental crowns and porcelain blocks can be made in cases of tooth damage such as broken teeth. It is very common for patients with bruxism to need cosmetic treatments as they can lose part of their enamel or even entire teeth due to the force applied to their teeth.
An aesthetic composite resin restoration is a dental aesthetic procedure in which a resin composite material is used to repair or rebuild the structure of an aesthetically compromised tooth.
This technique is often used to correct cavities, fractures or discolorations in order to restore the shape, function and natural appearance of teeth.
During the process, the dentist removes the damaged part of the tooth, prepares the affected area and applies layers of composite resin, carefully shaping them to ensure a perfect fit with the dental anatomy.
The resin is then hardened with special ultraviolet light.
The advantage of composite resin lies in its ability to mimic the color and texture of adjacent teeth, providing an aesthetic and long-lasting end result while preserving the structural integrity of the restored tooth.
Discover more discreet and transparent orthodontic braces to move your teeth without having pieces glued to your teeth.
Dental aesthetics and smile harmony
ImplArt Odontologia has a team specialized in carrying out aesthetic dental treatments, especially the application of dental contact lenses, including model treatments. What’s more, thanks to its own prosthetic laboratory, the best design and manufacture of dental contact lenses can be carried out very quickly, without intermediaries.
The three-dimensional design of the lenses is personalized for each patient, so that the patient can better participate in the process of choosing the shape and shade together with our team.
If you have any questions about the prices of cosmetic dental and gum treatments, as well as planning, please contact our team or come and visit us. We’ll be happy to help you!
Metal-ceramic crowns and prostheses are a classic option for people who have lost one or more teeth, to fully or partially cover a damaged crown or to improve the appearance, shape or alignment of teeth. Porcelain dental crowns are the popular name for metal-ceramic crowns, but today there are other types of porcelain for dental crowns.
Protese metaloceramica sem gengiva para arcada completaCoroas metalocerâmicas prontas exibindo o metal estrutural e o revestimento de porcelana
Advantages of metal-ceramic prostheses
The positive points of metal-ceramic crown technology are their strength, high level of durability and appearance.With the new generations of different porcelain formulations, they look very similar to natural teeth. In their final finish, porcelain prostheses are given a special shine so that they don’t darken under the effect of black light.
How crowns are made from this material
A metal-ceramic crown consists of an internal metal structure, which is then veneered with porcelain (ceramic).
Metal-ceramic crown Metal structure ready for an implant crown and for a natural tooth
Front and inside view ofmetal+ceramic crown (metal inner layer) vs. porcelain crown with zirconia inner structure
Metal-ceramic crowns have a great ability to blend in with the natural coloring of neighboring teeth. They can be used, for example, to replace a large restoration, protect a weakened tooth, make prostheses for one or more teeth, restore a dental implant or a full prosthesis to replace all the teeth in an arch. In short, when making a prosthesis, the patient and the dentist will decide on the best option for each person.
Which material is better? The zirconia crown (left) or the metalloceramic crown (right). The strength of the pieces is similar, but there is a great advantage in the aesthetics of the crown which contains no metal inside.
If it’s a metal-ceramic prosthesis, the specialist will choose the correct color so that it matches your natural teeth. Before your permanent porcelain crown is made, you will receive a temporary dental crown. In some cases where natural teeth are reconstructed using porcelain crowns, the root canal-treated teeth will need an internal reinforcement pin called a dental core.
Fixed metal-ceramic prosthesis for 3 teeth (the central tooth is missing). Floss does not pass between the teeth in this type of prosthesis.
Metal-ceramic upper total prosthesis: 1 – Trial of the metal structure milled by computerized systems; 2 – Prosthesis with the application of porcelain crowns and artificial gingival characterized
Disadvantages of the metal-ceramic crown
The structural metal of the metal-ceramic is the main strength of the metal+porcelain prosthesis (resistance), but it is also its main disadvantage. The internal metal of the prosthesis or dental crown can make the work less aesthetic because:
A dark spot may appear on the tooth due to the translucency of the metal.
Dentures can turn gray
A metal-ceramic porcelain crown can show metal on its edge, leaving the gums dark
They are difficult to repair in the event of a fracture
They are less living than natural teeth or more modern prostheses such as dental zirconia.
Metal-ceramic prosthesis can reveal the opacity of the metal inside when exposed to light
What if I don’t want metal in my mouth?
Another option to metal ceramics can be metal-free porcelain, which is very suitable for front teeth or for people who are allergic to metals. Nowadays there are several types of metal-free crowns, including computer-made crowns, in which the molds are not made with putty but with digitized molds.
ImplArt Odontologia has its own dental laboratory within the clinic. This certainly facilitates communication between dentists and prosthodontists and reduces the time it takes to make the prosthesis. The in-house prosthetic laboratory is fully equipped with digital technologies and 3D tooth printers.If you have any questions, please contact our team or book an appointment with our specialist team. We’d be delighted to hear from you!
To improve the appearance of the teeth and correct any damage they have suffered, patients have at their disposal porcelain veneers or dental contact lenses, which are thin sheets of porcelain, customized for the patient and bonded to the front of the front teeth. They are able to change the aesthetics of the smile.
With this procedure, your smile can look more beautiful and your self-esteem can also benefit. Porcelain veneers can solve a variety of aesthetic problems in the teeth, such as stains and discoloration, chips, enamel wear, small fractures, closing gaps between teeth (diastemas), enlarging small teeth, changing the shape of teeth, among others.
What is the difference between a contact lens and a veneer?
Basically, the differences between dental lenses and veneers are their thickness, the material used and the preparation technique.
Dental veneers
Porcelain veneers
In the porcelain veneer technique, the dentist needs to:
Wear away a LARGER amount of the tooth enamel (approximately 1mm).
SILICONE molds and impression trays are made. While the permanent veneers are being prepared, the patient wears the temporary veneers.
The material used is generally common feldspathic porcelain, made using a handmade technique (more fragile).
The purpose of wearing down the teeth is to make room for the porcelain veneer and increase its thickness. Without wear, the teeth would be overcontoured, or have too much volume. In addition, the porcelain veneer might not fit so perfectly on the tooth.
Dental lenses
Dental contact lenses
In the contact lens technique, the dentist needs to:
Wear away a LESSER amount of the tooth enamel (approximately 0.3mm).
Molds are made with an INTRA ORAL SCANNER. While the permanent veneers are being prepared, the patient wears temporary lenses or a mockup. Sometimes it is not necessary to use temporary lenses because the wear does not affect the aesthetics.
The material used is generally porcelain MADE ON A COMPUTERIZED MILL (more resistant and precise).
Like any restoration, porcelain veneers need to be properly cared for and periodically reassessed. Patients should also maintain the hygiene of the tooth surfaces. We now also make ultra-thin porcelain veneers, which are dental contact lenses. The application of dental lenses requires little or no wear to the tooth structure. Find out more by clicking here.
Note that in this model the lateral incisor tooth has been worn down, i.e. prepared for the installation of the lens
The metal-free porcelain crown provides aesthetics combined with strength and durability
What is a porcelain crown?
A porcelain crown is an artificial tooth – a dental prosthesis – that resembles in form and function a natural tooth that has been damaged. Porcelain crowns can also be grouped together to make fixed bridges or fixed porcelain prostheses. Here at the ImplArt Dental Clinic in Brazil, we make metal-free crowns using completely computerized systems. We therefore offer our patients the most modern systems and the most advanced results.
What is dental porcelain?
Porcelain is a material that resembles glass and is used to reconstruct teeth. It has a natural color and high resistance. It is also called dental ceramic.
Types and materials of porcelain crowns
In short, there are different types of materials used to make porcelain crowns: the older materials use metal and the more modern ones are metal-free. Porcelain crowns with metal internal structures are called metal-ceramic and crowns with a white structure such as zirconia are called metal-free.
There are also crowns that do not use internal structures and are made using computerized methods. In addition, covering a destroyed natural tooth with a ceramic crown is essential for oral health, as it will restore the patient’s chewing ability and even allow them to eat hard foods.
The advantage of the metal-free porcelain crown is that it is more aesthetic, since pure porcelain is a white material. As a result, the structure is not visible inside the crown even in brightly lit environments. The new generations of porcelain crowns are made using cad/cam methods according to computerized designs and don’t even require layers of internal reinforcement like metal and zirconia. They are made from a single (monolithic) material. These are digital, metal-free porcelain crowns whose main advantages are aesthetics and speed of production.
Another innovative material for making a new porcelain crown is translucent zirconia, a material that is up to 10 x stronger than ordinary porcelain crowns. For this reason, they are highly recommended for the oral rehabilitation of back teeth and in patients with bruxism. Oral rehabilitation with crowns can be carried out on implants, on roots with root canal treatment and on natural teeth without root canal treatment.
Fitting dental crowns requires preparation (tooth wear) so that the crown fits correctly. The main digital technique we use is Cerec 3D, an intraoral molding system with scanners and robotic tooth production.
Before a permanent prosthesis is made, we will make a temporary prosthesis so that you don’t lose your tooth. After the rehabilitation treatment, you will be able to lead a normal life, eat hard food and clean your teeth every day with a toothbrush and dental floss. The ImplArt Clinic specializes in dental prostheses and can offer you a porcelain crown with state-of-the-art technology.
Porcelain crown: advantages and indications
Porcelain crowns are fixed dental prostheses that mimic the shape and appearance of natural teeth. When a tooth is badly damaged, it may be necessary to have root canal treatment and a porcelain crown. By Dr. Roberto Markarian, graduated dentist and specialist in dental prostheses and dental implants in São Paulo, Brazil.
What is dental porcelain?
Choosing the ideal dental prosthesis can lead to confusion when faced with a number of options. Fixed dental prostheses must meet both functional and aesthetic needs. These are the main objectives that determine the choice of the ideal material. Before choosing the material, it is first necessary to understand the differences between the types of porcelain dental crowns. The main one is the reinforcement technique, which is the part required for masticatory efforts. Understand the differences better:
Metal-ceramic crown
The porcelain dental crown is built on a metal structure. It is durable and aesthetic, and can be used on both anterior and posterior teeth. However, in some cases, it may not achieve the best aesthetic result on anterior teeth, because the dark metal inside the prosthesis can leave the crown looking darkened when subjected to intense lighting.
Porcelain crown with metal-free zirconia
This is a porcelain crown mounted on a white zirconia structure, which is therefore metal-free. It is highly durable and has excellent aesthetic results, as the white zirconia of the internal structure leaves the crown with a natural appearance very similar to the natural tooth. The porcelain crown with zirconia can also be fixed on dental implants and is completely computer-engineered and made on a 3D tooth printer. It is also an indication for people with metal allergies.
Pure porcelain crown
It has excellent aesthetic results and great resistance. The material used is lithium disilicate or feldspathic ceramic. Because this ceramic is very translucent, it is not normally suitable for use on darkened teeth or on metal posts.
Porcelain crown for natural teeth with excellent anatomy and aesthetics
How much does a porcelain crown cost?
Treatment prices can only be given after a face-to-face dental consultation. This is because the patient needs to be thoroughly assessed so that our team can understand their functional and aesthetic needs. Only then can we recommend the most appropriate treatment. In many cases, our team will offer a number of treatment options and respective outcome expectations, and the patient is free to choose.
Porcelain crowns can be made quickly in our clinic using our Day Clinic method for porcelain crowns. At the end of the porcelain crown treatment, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene by flossing daily and brushing regularly.
If you are far away, it is possible to have an online consultation, also known as a teleconsultation. This preliminary consultation takes place with our clinical director, Dr. Roberto Markarian, who will be able to make a preliminary assessment of your case and make recommendations for your treatment. This also applies to those who need dental implants, as we can plan your dental implant surgery remotely.
Pure zirconia is also known as cubic zirconia, translucent zirconia, monolithic zirconia and black zirconia. It is currently considered the most modern and resistant material for making dental crowns.
Dental prostheses made from this material are fixed onto dental implants previously placed in the upper or lower jaw.
In order to offer patients the most modern treatments, the ImplArt dental clinic has once again innovated by pioneering the best European technology (Austria) to manufacture 3D zirconia dental prostheses in its own laboratory.
Its modern manufacturing allows treatment to be carried out using 100% computerized techniques, with complete digital planning of the case. This means more comfortable treatment for the patient, much more predictable, and above all, faster.
The translucent zirconia protocol prosthesis is completely white and contains no metal inside. As a result, the colors and shapes are more beautiful and natural.
Planning 3D zirconia implant/prosthesis treatment
For a complete treatment with dental implants, there must first be an extensive conversation between the dental surgeon and the patient. The definition of the total treatment takes place in 3 stages:
1- Firstly: Planning the surgical and prosthetic aspects of the all-tooth or partial implant case. First of all, the patient’s needs are studied, with a clinical assessment and radiological examinations, so that the case can be planned precisely before it is carried out.
3- Thirdly: Preparation of the final dental prosthesis. Once the implants have healed, the long-awaited making of the complete prosthesis begins, according to the material chosen by the patient at the start of their treatment.
Zirconia dental prosthesis without gums. In some cases it is possible to make a zirconia dental prosthesis without the pink gum layer. In an acrylic dental protocol this would not be possible.
Not all protocol prostheses are the same and made of acrylic!
The choice of implant prosthesis material
Nowadays, you can choose from a variety of materials for fixed prostheses on implants (dental protocols). In the past, there were only metal-ceramics (metal structure and porcelain exterior) and acrylic (resin), made by hand.
Today, ImplArt is able to offer patients options with extreme resistance and superior aesthetics, such as computer-engineered translucent zirconia. In this sense, each type of prosthetic material can have an impact on the patient’s treatment in terms of price, preparation time and the final aesthetics of the total implant.
Therefore, in this article, we will explain the most modern model of fixed prosthesis on implants: the computerized translucent zirconia prosthesis, as well as its advantages and characteristics.
What is 3D dental zirconia? Zirconia is a white material that has the strength of a metal
Zirconia dental prosthesis being designed on a computer, with a photo of the face superimposed. This gives us additional information about the lips, skin and gum colors, the shape of the teeth and the final appearance of the smile.
Types of zirconia prosthesis for dental protocols
Today there are three types of dental zirconia to better perform protocol prostheses on implants (fixed dental prostheses), namely :
1. milky whitezirconia structure (lower volume), together with applied porcelain overlay (higher volume)
2. 3Dtranslucent zirconia prosthesis (larger volume), i.e. with a small application of porcelain on the outside of the teeth (smaller volume)
3.3D monolithic pure zirconia prosthesis (full volume) with make-up, so no additional porcelain applied
The aesthetics of aesthetic zirconia fixed prostheses are unbeatable. Notice how translucent the material is and how beautiful and natural it looks.
What does the 3D translucent pure zirconia implant prosthesis look like?
In this type of zirconia prosthesis, there is only a small porcelain overlay on the structural part of the prosthesis. In short, the entire final process of making the monolithic zirconia prosthesis is done by computer programs and robotic machines( Digital Dentistry).
Therefore, we are sure that the fittings will be perfect, the anatomy will be that of natural teeth, and the colors will be realistic.
Dental zirconia protocol. Note that there is a small layer of translucent porcelain on the outside of the tooth to give it more shine, better color and more translucency. The rest of the prosthesis is solid and made of pure zirconia that has been tinted to match the natural color of the tooth and gums. The holes will be closed after the fixed prosthesis has been installed.
Advantages of the 3D zirconia protocol prosthesis
In contrast to metal as a structure, the main advantages of translucent zirconia are its biocompatibility, excellent aesthetics and extreme resistance. Zirconia, with the white structural part of the dental prosthesis, undeniably enhances the natural cosmetic characteristics of porcelain.
In fact, dental zirconia is exceptionally strong and durable as a base. So much so that the use of small portions of porcelain over this translucent zirconia structure provides complementary aesthetics for the complete implant.
The structure of the zirconia dental prosthesis is white and, at this stage, not yet colored or shiny. In the next phase of the prosthetic work in our dental laboratory, the piece will come to life with the pigmentation of teeth and gums. The final colors depend on the consensus between the person’s taste and the dentist’s opinion. However, you can virtually choose any color from the available range. The most commonly used shades for porcelain zirconia teeth are B1, A1, BL4, A2, B2. For the gums, we try to follow the color of the patient’s natural gums, with the most common colors being STG4, STG5 and STG8.
Work on applying layers of ceramic. In the end, all the natural aspects of the teeth and gums will be reproduced, imitating their tones, textures and translucency.
Zirconia prosthesis with aesthetic ceramic application, ready to be installed on the implants
Superior aesthetics of 3DZirconia
Dental zirconia can be custom-made in such a way that it resembles the enamel and gum tissues, thus optimizing the aesthetic result.
Translucent dental zirconia is undeniably the best material for fixed prostheses on implants, as it offers translucency, naturalness and strength as a result.
First of all, it should be noted that the zirconia protocol prosthesis makes no noise when chewed, is not heavy, nor does it damage dental implants, and certainly not opposing teeth.
Translucent dental zirconia is a material that above all does not change color, does not stain and therefore does not wear out with use.
Observe the natural anatomical details of the finished porcelain and zirconia fixed dental prosthesis. This work is done in our in-house digital dental laboratory.
How are 3D translucent zirconia dentures made?
The ImplArt Clinic has all the infrastructure to make your zirconia fixed prosthesis in its own laboratory. Here’s how it works: a zirconia dental prosthesis is manufactured using computerized processes, starting with the milling of a solid block of zirconia.
Above all, because it is a CAD-CAM (computerized) job, your dental project is stored in our laboratory, so the original project can be printed again quickly, should the need arise.
Dental prostheses: versions with or without artificial gum are possible (but it depends on an examination to check feasibility).1-Without gum layer; 2-Light gum layer; 3-With gum layer.
Maintenance of fixed 3D translucent zirconia dental implants
First and foremost, zirconia is extremely resistant and is certainly the strongest material for dental use. As such, its resistance is superior to porcelain and, of course, resin.
Maintenance for a zirconia prosthesis involves a visit to the dentist every 6 months for prophylaxis, in order to monitor oral health in the same way as recommended for all other patients.
The risk of the prosthesis fracturing is, above all, very rare, due to a characteristic of the material.
With regard to the color and shape of the teeth, these remain unchanged over time, making the material an excellent choice for its durability and, above all, long-term aesthetics.
It is always important to remember that, once treatment is complete, you should visit your dentist every 6 months for prophylaxis and to monitor the results of your treatment.
Dental contact lenses are ultra-thin porcelain veneers (0.2 mm), used mainly to correct some aesthetic dental problems. They work similarly to “caps” that are bonded to one or more teeth to cover stains, small dental fractures and other defects, or to change the shape and size of teeth.
How to transform the aesthetics of your smile with dental contact lenses?
Dental contact lens treatment is certainly the smile of the famous.Dental contact lenses are completely computer-designed and made from dental porcelain by milling machines (3D printers).
Dental porcelain is a vitreous ceramic material (lithium disilicate) that is very resistant and, above all, imitates the texture and shade of natural teeth. It is also a safe material that is totally biocompatible with the human body.
The project is carried out according to images obtained by an intraoral scanner – a high-precision camera.
Stages of a dental contact lens treatment in our clinic that works with CAD CAM computerized techniques
Immediately after milling, dental contact lenses have a shape, color and texture comparable to natural teeth, even imitating the characteristics of neighboring teeth. Because they are ultra-thin, installation requires little or no wear on the natural teeth. Indications for dental contact lenses:
This porcelain lens was made using a computerized technique. Note that the machine sculpts the block until the dental contact lens is extracted from it
They don’t require much tooth grinding to be installed
Preserves the structure of the teeth
No discomfort in chewing function
Porcelain doesn’t change color over the years
Incredibly natural and harmonious result
It can be designed and executed in a short time, in some cases even in a Day Clinic.
Porcelain lenses made using digital techniques
At the ImplArt dental clinic, all this work is primarily done in a precise and personalized way for each patient. This is only possible because we have CAD/CAM-based technologies on our premises, which not only carry out the computerized design of the treatment, but also the execution of the dental contact lenses.
Fixed dental prostheses on teeth are a solution for providing function and aesthetics to the smile of a person who has lost or fractured teeth. This type of prosthesis is also known as a bridge.
Fixed prosthesis on teeth to replace missing teeth
Sometimes it is installed glued over remaining neighboring teeth or attached by staples. Although this is a great solution for filling gaps, it can cause some inconvenience over time.
One of them is that this type of prosthesis is unable to stop bone resorption at the site, especially under the suspended element.
This is because the body progressively absorbs bone volume at the site of a tooth extraction without immediate replacement. In this respect, rapid dental implantation would be more appropriate.
The prosthesis doesn’t follow this movement and the tendency is for an unsightly gap to appear between it and the receding bone tissue.
This can leave the prosthesis out of place over time and the wearer may experience discomfort when chewing. Staples, on the other hand, can hurt the oral mucosa and damage the aesthetics of the smile if the metal is visible.
Bonded bridge over teeth
Bridge secured by metal clips
Another drawback of fixed prostheses on teeth is that they require wear and tear on the supporting teeth, which can make them more fragile and susceptible to diseases such as tooth decay and infiltration of canals or gum inflammation.
Replacing bridges over teeth with bridges over implants or single crowns therefore has many benefits, the main one being that it stops bone resorption. When the implant pins are installed in the bone, they function as tooth roots and the body understands that this bone is still useful.
Dental implants have other advantages:
Preserves the integrity of neighboring teeth (which do not need to be worn down);
Protects bone and gum tissue against periodontal disease and infiltration;
It is more resistant and durable;
It restores masticatory function and gives you the confidence to speak and smile;
Extremely aesthetic result. The prosthetic crown mimics the color, texture and shape of neighboring teeth. There is the aesthetic advantage of having no metal points from the staples.
When crowns are individualized, they make it possible to floss (note that the fixed prosthesis on teeth is one piece and it is not possible to floss between the teeth).
Dental implants offer several other advantages in addition to stopping bone resorption. They provide stability and security when chewing and speaking, as well as helping to preserve facial bone structure. In addition, single crowns or bridges on implants offer a more natural aesthetic, promoting a more harmonious smile.
If you have been wearing a fixed prosthesis on your teeth for many years and would like to replace it with a dental implant, you will need to undergo a professional assessment that will identify whether there is advanced bone loss or bruxism.
In some cases, bone grafting can be a solution for reconstructing lost volume. Find out more about bone grafting.
Ideally, people should try to have this replaced as soon as possible to avoid bone loss, but in cases where the gums are not healthy, the procedure may be contraindicated.
Prior periodontal treatment would then be necessary. It is important to remember that, once treatment has been completed, you should visit the dentist every 6 months for prophylaxis and to monitor the results of the treatment.
If you have any further questions about this technique, photos of dentures or prices, please contact us. We’ll be happy to help you.
Contact lenses price and duration or dental contact lenses value are common doubts among people who would like to improve their smile. Find out all about this aesthetic treatment that can transform smiles:
The price and duration of dental contact lenses can vary according to the technique and material used. It is important to consult our specialists for precise information on the cost of treatment. Contact lenses are a modern aesthetic option for improving your smile, as they are made from high-quality porcelain.
The manufacturing process involves the use of advanced technology, such as milling on modern equipment, guaranteeing an ideal aesthetic result. The digital laboratory plays an important role in the creation of contact lenses, allowing detailed and personalized planning for each patient. Below is a photo of a case with BEFORE and AFTER PORCELAIN CONTACT LENS:
Dental contact lenses can radically change the appearance of a smile!
Topics in this article about dental contact lenses
What are dental contact lenses?
Dental lenses are a modern technique that can certainly transform the aesthetics of your smile quickly.They are ultra-thin porcelain veneers (0.2 mm) that are bonded to the outside of the teeth in order to correct certain defects in the teeth.
This is the case, for example, with stains, small fractures, asymmetries, diastemas (exaggerated space between teeth), very short teeth, among others. Dental contact lens treatment is undoubtedly the secret to the smiles of the famous.
What is the best material for dental contact lenses?
They are made from dental porcelain. This is a glassy ceramic material (lithium disilicate) that is very resistant and imitates the texture and shades of natural teeth. It is certainly a safe material and totally biocompatible with the human body.
Step-by-step instructions for dental contact lenses
What is the difference between dental contact lenses and resin veneers?
Dental contact lenses are now associated with an aesthetically natural smile and their development involves modern computer graphics techniques and 3D printers.
Nowadays, however, we see that the old resin veneers are becoming more popular. Of course, it’s important to note that resin is a far inferior material to porcelain. Therefore, it is likely that the option of resin veneers has gained ground mainly due to their price and low treatment costs. Although resin veneers are a more economical option, they have a tendency to yellow over time and, in most cases, promote extra tooth volume. Resin veneers therefore offer no advantages over dental contact lenses. See below for a video showing the differences between Porcelain Contact Lenses and Resin Veneers:
How are dental contact lenses made?
In a consultation, the patient is first examined and listened to by the dentist so that all their expectations are understood. Our team will then check whether this treatment is the right one for you.
At the ImplArt Clinic, not only the design but also the execution of the contact lenses is done using computerized systems. The computerized design is based on images obtained by an intraoral scanner.
A high-precision camera with Danish technology is passed over the teeth and a digital mold is created on the computer screen. The digital impression reproduces every detail, such as shape, color and texture.The images of the digital mold are used to plan the lenses, the choice of shade and the shape.
Ready-made dental contact lenses for the front teeth (8 teeth) made on a 3D printer.
The aesthetic design takes into account that the lenses match the neighboring teeth, as well as each person’s face and personality.One of the great advantages of the computerized design of the lenses is that the treatment can be fully simulated and the patient can see what their teeth will look like.Once the design has been approved, the lenses are then made in 3D printers.
Preparing teeth for lenses: is there wear on the teeth?
Because dental contact lenses are ultra-thin, they have the great advantage of requiring little or no wear on the teeth in order to be bonded.The lenses are then bonded onto the prepared teeth with a type of dental adhesive.
It’s worth noting that dental contact lenses are firmer when bonded to the front teeth than to the back teeth.The work is almost always done without anesthesia in the area where the contact lenses will be placed, but when the preparation requires some wear that reaches the dentin, anesthesia is applied to avoid discomfort. Watch the video below to see how the tooth is prepared to receive the Dental Contact Lens:
Aspect of a case with newly fitted contact lenses on the top teeth
Do dental contact lenses always have to be very white?
Many patients want to get contact lenses and are afraid that their smile will look too white and artificial. Certainly the choice of the color of the prostheses, including the lenses, generates expectation in the patient, as they are, after all, a fundamental part of the treatment. Dental contact lenses can produce very natural and harmonious results. First of all, it’s important to note that there is a very wide range of colors for computerized contact lenses. Of course, here at the ImplArt Clinic you will be guided to choose a shade that is in harmony with you, through visagism techniques and with professional guidance.
Color of contact lenses should be natural
Contact Lens treatment can be combined with crowns and implants
Yes, contact lens treatment can certainly be combined with other patient needs. Therefore, if the patient needs dental implants, dental crowns or contact lenses on other teeth, the treatment is planned together.
According to Dr. Markarian, our clinical director, the contact lenses are designed in computer graphics along with the dental crowns on implants. They are then printed on the modern 3D milling machines in our digital laboratory. In this way, the smile presents natural and long-lasting final results. Both the teeth that have been fitted with Contact Lenses and those with dental implant crowns will have harmonious shades and shapes.
Some indications for dental contact lenses
Covering stains on teeth (in the case of very dark stains, another treatment may be indicated)
Tooth augmentation – suitable for people with very short teeth
As the treatment is definitive, it is not possible to remove the lens and leave it without a replacement, as the tooth has been prepared for the placement of the lens (enamel wear). This is why the treatment must be well planned between dentist and patient to avoid regrets.
Contact lenses on the front teeth. The side tooth shows the amount of wear needed to place the aesthetic dental lens.
How long do dental contact lenses last?
The duration of dental contact lenses depends on certain precautions, such as:
Good treatment planning and execution, important to promote the best adaptation of the lenses to the teeth and gums
Good quality materials (porcelain and dental cement)
Proper oral hygiene
Regular visits to the dentist
Use a brush with soft bristles and brush gently to avoid receding gums.
Food (beware of acidic foods that can aggressively damage porcelain)
Avoid biting your nails or chewing on hard objects
However, dental contact lenses have a limited lifespan and may need to be replaced after a few years (5 to 10 years).
Images of Dental Contact Lens and Implant treatments together.
Contact lenses before and afterContact lenses before and afterContact lenses before and afterContact lenses priceDental contact lensesContact lenses before and aftercontact lenses before and afterDental contact lensesContact lenses before and after
Contact lenses price
Prices and values of dental treatments and dental contact lenses can only be given after a dental consultation. There are three main reasons for this:
The Code of Ethics of the Federal Council of Dentistry prohibits dentists from carrying out consultations without evaluating the patient.
Dental treatments can only be indicated after a careful assessment of the patient. There are numerous factors that influence the planning and price of a treatment, such as materials, techniques used, extent of the problem, etc.
The third is the importance of being assessed by a professional dentist who makes dental lenses, who is attentive to all the details of oral health, not just aesthetics.
It is certainly important to emphasize that a dental treatment cannot be compared by its price. The value of a treatment involves several factors and choosing by price alone cannot be a determining factor. Choose the quality and seriousness of the professional, not just the price!
We at Clinica Dentaria ImplArt are on hand to answer any questions you may have about this important and renewing treatment! Contact us to schedule your evaluation appointment with Dr. Roberto Markarian, our clinical director. If you are far away, abroad or in another state, there is always the possibility of scheduling your appointment online.
Dr. Roberto Markarian, specialist in prosthodontics.
Dr. Roberto Markarian is a reference in dental implants and computerized dental prostheses in Brazil. As well as having more than 10,000 implants installed, he is a researcher who produces knowledge that is published worldwide in renowned scientific journals in the field of dentistry. He is responsible for promoting knowledge and high technology applied in all the treatments offered by the ImplArt Clinic.
A complete dental implant is a fixed dental prosthesis on implants that makes up for the absence of all the teeth and improves chewing, speech and the look of the smile. It is called a protocol prosthesis and aims to re-establish the patient’s chewing function by inserting a dental implant in the upper or lower arch.
There are currently many types of protocol prosthesis to be installed on dental implants. Among them is translucent zirconia, which is the most modern option because it uses a computerized system for its execution, which improves precision, speeds up results and allows for superior aesthetics combined with high resistance.
The dental implant, on the other hand, can be made of titanium, or even ceramic, in Straumann‘s modern version, Pure Ceramic, or even the fast-healing titanium version, Slactive. There is also a national dental implant option, Neodent.
Complete dental implants to improve chewing and self-esteem
We are currently working with materials that are very comparable to natural teeth, both in terms of function and aesthetics. Patients who have lost their teeth for various reasons can have consequences that affect their health and well-being.
The absence of natural teeth (edentulism) hinders the ability to chew food, compromising the intake of essential nutrients for health and quality of life.
In addition, the person with total edentulism has their social life affected because they can’t smile and speak confidently in front of other people. As a result, they tend to become reclusive and have low self-esteem.
Complete dental implants improve chewing, self-esteem and aestheticsComplete dental implants improve chewing, self-esteem and aestheticsComplete dental implants improve chewing, self-esteem and aestheticsComplete dental implants improve chewing, self-esteem and aestheticsComplete dental implants improve chewing, self-esteem and aestheticsComplete dental implants improve chewing, self-esteem and aestheticsComplete dental implants improve chewing, self-esteem and aestheticsComplete dental implants improve chewing, self-esteem and aestheticsComplete dental implants improve chewing, self-esteem and aesthetics
Advantages of a fixed prosthesis over a removable prosthesis
The fact that the prosthesis is fixed on implants makes it more comfortable and safer for the wearer to chew and speak than a mobile prosthesis, which can sometimes become maladjusted and move or even hurt.
Implants can be placed in different ways, as it varies according to the patient’s condition, especially if they have been edentulous for many years.
The realization of digital dental prosthesis design is possible thanks to advances in technology in recent years. These technologies are certainly making treatments faster, more precise and with better predictability of results. This applies to both fixed prostheses on dental implants and prostheses on teeth.
Index
It is now possible to see and perfect the result of the treatment on the computer screen before it is finished
ImplArt is continually investing in acquiring the main technologies developed in this sector. They allow us to carry out what we call a digital smile project, i.e. we use a computer to design one or more teeth (choosing their shape and shade) and to plan implant surgeries.
The latest addition is the Cerec Primemill milling machine, which allows crowns to be made with even more detail and even more precise results.
Modern technologies are constantly advancing, always seeking to combine greater patient comfort, speedy treatment and superior aesthetic results. In addition, there is a variety of work available such as crowns, blocks, fixed prostheses with pontics, dental lenses, prostheses on implants.
Photographs of the patient and software are used to plan and make functional and aesthetic changes to the smile, such as adjusting occlusion, the shape and shade of the teeth.
According to scientific research carried out by Dr. Roberto Markarian, Clinical Director of ImplArt, the use of digital prostheses speeds up the delivery time of the work by up to 5x, and increases the degree of patient satisfaction by 80%.
Example of a digital dental contact lens project
Cerec 3D and Ceramill Motion II
Systems developed for dental laboratories in which we can make the digital design of prostheses, plan and execute teeth using 3D printers. The technique used in digital smile design is called CAD/CAM (computer-aided design). It consists of 4 phases:
Intraoral Scanner – This is a high-precision camera used to capture images inside the patient’s mouth. The images are so lifelike that they show minute details such as the tone and texture of the gums and teeth.
Processing software – The images captured by the camera are sent to specialized software that creates a three-dimensional digital mould. In this processing phase, our team has the freedom to make adjustments, such as altering the shape and tone, in order to leave the piece with the characteristics that best match the patient’s needs. The computerized design can be superimposed on photographs of the patient to make it easier to understand the proposed treatment.
Milling – Equipment that works in a similar way to 3D printers. It receives information from the project and executes it accordingly. This compartment has robotic arms that mill raw ceramic blocks until they reach the shape of the designed part.
Ceramic kiln – The designed piece is taken to a high-temperature kiln to undergo a process called ceramic sintering. This phase is what gives the piece strength, shine and shade so that it has characteristics very close to natural teeth.
The main advantages of digital prosthesis design are:
Precision – the design of each tooth is made according to the patient’s needs. Once finished, they are the same size and shade as the original design. The fit is usually excellent.
Predictability – the software we use is sensitive enough for us to create a three-dimensional mold of the patient in great detail. Both our professionals and the patient can visualize the project on the computer screen, thus being able to predict the outcome of the treatment very accurately.
Speed – this system allows us to skip steps that could previously only be done manually, meaning that prosthetic work has become faster. We can perform teeth in a few days or even a few hours through the Day Clinic*.
Repeatability – The system allows you to repeat jobs and even make an identical copy of a prosthesis or tooth.
The installation of a provisional made with digital smile planning allows the patient to concretely visualize how their treatment will look before they begin the more invasive procedures in the mouth. This is known as a smile test drive or digital mockup.Treatments that can be planned on a computer: